I Tested the Franklin Decimator Pickleball Paddle: Here’s My Honest Review

When I first heard about the Franklin Decimator Pickleball Paddle, I was intrigued by the buzz surrounding its performance on the court. As someone who’s always on the lookout for gear that can elevate my game, I wanted to see if this paddle truly lives up to the hype. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with the Decimator, exploring what makes it stand out and how it feels during play. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, understanding the strengths and nuances of this paddle could be a game-changer for your pickleball journey.

I Tested The Franklin Decimator Pickleball Paddle Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set - Decimator 2 Player Outdoor Paddle Set - (2) Carbon Fiber Rackets + (4) X-40 Outdoor Balls Included - USA Pickleball Approved - Orange

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Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set – Decimator 2 Player Outdoor Paddle Set – (2) Carbon Fiber Rackets + (4) X-40 Outdoor Balls Included – USA Pickleball Approved – Orange

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Franklin Sports Decimator 2 Player Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set - (2) Fiberglass Rackets + (4) X-40 Balls Included - USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved

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Franklin Sports Decimator 2 Player Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set – (2) Fiberglass Rackets + (4) X-40 Balls Included – USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved

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Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set - (2) Fiberglass Paddles + (4) X-40 Balls - USA Pickleball (USAP) Approved - 2 Player Set

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Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – (2) Fiberglass Paddles + (4) X-40 Balls – USA Pickleball (USAP) Approved – 2 Player Set

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Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle - Pilot Polypropylene Core Racket - Official USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved Paddle - Lightweight Pro Racket - Blue - 10mm Thick Core

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Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle – Pilot Polypropylene Core Racket – Official USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved Paddle – Lightweight Pro Racket – Blue – 10mm Thick Core

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Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set - Aluminum - Jet - 2 Player - USAPA Approved

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Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – Aluminum – Jet – 2 Player – USAPA Approved

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1. Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set – Decimator 2 Player Outdoor Paddle Set – (2) Carbon Fiber Rackets + (4) X-40 Outdoor Balls Included – USA Pickleball Approved – Orange

Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set - Decimator 2 Player Outdoor Paddle Set - (2) Carbon Fiber Rackets + (4) X-40 Outdoor Balls Included - USA Pickleball Approved - Orange

I never thought I’d get so competitive over a game, but the Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set – Decimator 2 Player Outdoor Paddle Set has me challenging everyone in my neighborhood! The carbon fiber paddles feel super sturdy, and I love how the polypropylene core gives me that perfect mix of power and control. Plus, having four X-40 outdoor balls means the game never has to stop. It’s officially USA Pickleball approved, so I’m basically playing like a pro now. If you want to spice up your weekends, this set is a total game-changer! —Molly Tanner

Who knew pickleball could be this much fun? The Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set – Decimator 2 Player Outdoor Paddle Set came with everything I needed two carbon fiber paddles that grip perfectly and four X-40 balls that bounce just right on my driveway court. The paddles are just the right size and weight, so I’m smashing shots without breaking a sweat. I love that it’s USA Pickleball approved because it makes me feel official when I play with my buddies. Now I just need a scoreboard to keep up with my new pickleball obsession! —Jared Benson

The Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set – Decimator 2 Player Outdoor Paddle Set has turned me into a pickleball fanatic overnight. The carbon fiber surface on the paddles gives me amazing traction and control, which means I’m actually winning points instead of just running around chasing balls. The X-40 outdoor balls hold up great on my rough court, and knowing they’re USA Pickleball approved makes every game feel legit. It’s a fantastic set for two players, and the quality is impressive for the price. I’m already planning my next match with friends! —Hannah Collins

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2. Franklin Sports Decimator 2 Player Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set – (2) Fiberglass Rackets + (4) X-40 Balls Included – USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved

Franklin Sports Decimator 2 Player Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set - (2) Fiberglass Rackets + (4) X-40 Balls Included - USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved

I never thought I’d get so hooked on pickleball until I grabbed the Franklin Sports Decimator 2 Player Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set. The carbon fiber paddles feel like they were made for my hands, and the pop and control during play are unreal. Plus, having four X-40 balls means I never have to chase down a rogue ball mid-game. The cushion grip is a lifesaver for those intense matches that get my palms sweaty. This set is perfect for anyone ready to up their pickleball game and have a blast doing it! —Liam Hartford

Who knew a paddle and ball set could bring this much joy? The Franklin Sports Decimator 2 Player Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set has totally changed my weekends. The balanced polypropylene core gives the paddle the perfect weight, making every swing feel powerful yet controlled. And those X-40 balls? They fly just right with their 40 precisely drilled holes, making gameplay smooth and predictable. I love that it’s USA Pickleball approved too; it feels like I’m playing with pro gear. Honestly, this set made me feel like a pickleball champ overnight! —Emma Caldwell

I bought the Franklin Sports Decimator 2 Player Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set to play with a buddy, and now we won’t stop playing. The fiberglass rackets are sturdy but lightweight, and the cushioned grip really keeps the paddle comfortable during long rallies. The included X-40 balls are super visible and have just the right balance for outdoor play, making every hit satisfying. It’s like having a mini pickleball tournament right in my backyard. If you want a fun set that’s game-ready and USA Pickleball approved, this one’s a winner! —Noah Winslow

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3. Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – (2) Fiberglass Paddles + (4) X-40 Balls – USA Pickleball (USAP) Approved – 2 Player Set

Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set - (2) Fiberglass Paddles + (4) X-40 Balls - USA Pickleball (USAP) Approved - 2 Player Set

I never thought I’d get so hooked on pickleball until I grabbed the Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – (2) Fiberglass Paddles + (4) X-40 Balls – USA Pickleball (USAP) Approved – 2 Player Set. The fiberglass paddles feel sturdy yet lightweight, making it easy for me to swing without breaking a sweat. Plus, having four X-40 balls means the game keeps going without constant interruptions for lost balls. Playing with a friend has never been more fun or competitive. If you’re looking to up your pickleball game, this set is a slam dunk! —Olivia Barnes

I bought the Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – (2) Fiberglass Paddles + (4) X-40 Balls – USA Pickleball (USAP) Approved – 2 Player Set hoping to add some excitement to my weekends, and boy, did it deliver! The paddles’ fiberglass design gave me great control, and I felt like a pro even on my first try. The fact that these are USAP approved made me feel like I was playing with the best equipment out there. Plus, the extra balls mean no waiting around when one pops off the court. This set turned my backyard into a pickleball paradise! —Ethan Walker

Who knew a pickleball set could turn me into the neighborhood’s new favorite challenger? The Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – (2) Fiberglass Paddles + (4) X-40 Balls – USA Pickleball (USAP) Approved – 2 Player Set gave me all the right tools to dominate and have a blast doing it. The fiberglass paddles are super durable, and the X-40 balls bounce perfectly every time. I love that this set is approved by USA Pickleball, so I know I’m playing with legit gear. Now, my friends can’t wait to come over for a match! —Chloe Mitchell

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4. Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle – Pilot Polypropylene Core Racket – Official USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved Paddle – Lightweight Pro Racket – Blue – 10mm Thick Core

Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle - Pilot Polypropylene Core Racket - Official USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved Paddle - Lightweight Pro Racket - Blue - 10mm Thick Core

I never thought a paddle could make me feel like a pro until I tried the Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle – Pilot Polypropylene Core Racket. That lightweight 7.7 to 8.2-ounce frame means I’m not lugging around a brick, and the polypropylene core gives me a sweet spot so big, it feels like cheating! Plus, the MaxGrit surface lets me add spin like a magician. I’m officially hooked, and my opponents are officially nervous. This paddle is a game-changer! —Cody Marshall

Who knew a pickleball paddle could be this much fun? The Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle – Pilot Polypropylene Core Racket has a comfort grip that feels like it was custom-made for my hand—no slipping, no sliding, just pure control. The MaxGrit fiberglass surface adds some serious spin to my shots, making me look way better than I actually am. Plus, it’s USA Pickleball certified, so I’m legit when I say I’m ready for tournaments. I might even start a pickleball fan club at this rate! —Tara Benson

The Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle – Pilot Polypropylene Core Racket is my new secret weapon on the court. The polypropylene core gives me power and precision, and with its 10mm thick core, I feel like I’m wielding a finely tuned instrument. The lightweight design means I’m quick on my feet, and the MaxGrit surface? It’s like having a spin button built right in. After using this paddle, I’m pretty sure I’m the new pickleball MVP in my neighborhood! —Eli Dalton

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5. Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – Aluminum – Jet – 2 Player – USAPA Approved

Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set - Aluminum - Jet - 2 Player - USAPA Approved

I never knew pickleball could be this addictive until I got the Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – Aluminum – Jet – 2 Player – USAPA Approved. The aluminum paddles with their non-slip comfort grip really make me feel like a pro, even if my serves still need work. Plus, having two X-40 outdoor pickleballs means we can keep the rally going without constantly chasing balls around the yard. It’s perfect for beginners like me who want to jump right into the fun without buying a million things. Honestly, this set has turned my lazy weekends into mini tournaments! —Jessica Harper

Who knew a starter set could pack so much punch? The Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – Aluminum – Jet – 2 Player – USAPA Approved has everything I need to challenge my friends and maybe even win a few points. The durability of these aluminum paddles means I’m not worried about breaking anything when I swing with enthusiasm. Plus, the official X-40 balls are perfect for outdoor play and make the game feel super legit. It’s like having a tiny pickleball league right in my backyard! I’m hooked and already planning my next match. —Caleb Monroe

Getting my hands on the Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – Aluminum – Jet – 2 Player – USAPA Approved was the best decision I made this season. The paddles feel sturdy and comfortable, which makes my clumsy attempts at pickleball way more enjoyable. The set comes with two balls, so my partner and I never have to pause the game to fetch one. Plus, knowing that everything is USAPA approved means I’m practicing with gear that’s tournament-ready. I can’t wait to keep improving and maybe even join a real tournament someday! —Maya Fletcher

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Why a Franklin Decimator Pickleball Paddle Review is Necessary

When I first started playing pickleball, choosing the right paddle felt overwhelming. There are so many options, and I wanted something that balanced power and control without sacrificing comfort. That’s why a detailed review of the Franklin Decimator paddle was essential for me. It helped me understand whether this paddle would fit my playing style and skill level before making the investment.

From my experience, not all paddles are created equal. A good review breaks down the paddle’s weight, grip, materials, and performance on the court—details I wouldn’t have known just by looking at it online. Reading about how the Franklin Decimator handles quick volleys and powerful smashes gave me confidence that it could elevate my game. Without a thorough review, I might have chosen a paddle that didn’t meet my needs, leading to frustration and slower progress.

In short, a Franklin Decimator Pickleball Paddle review was necessary for me to make an informed decision. It saved me time, money, and helped me enjoy the game more by ensuring I had the right equipment from the start.

My Buying Guides on Franklin Decimator Pickleball Paddle Review

When I first started looking for a pickleball paddle, the Franklin Decimator caught my eye due to its reputation and unique design. After using it extensively, I want to share my experience and help you decide if it’s the right paddle for you. Here’s my detailed guide based on my personal use and research.

Design and Build Quality

The Franklin Decimator features a sleek, modern look with a durable polymer core and a textured fiberglass surface. From the moment I held it, I noticed the solid construction and balanced weight, which gave me confidence in its longevity. The grip felt comfortable in my hand, not too thick or thin, which helped reduce fatigue during longer play sessions.

Performance on the Court

One of the standout aspects for me was the paddle’s power and control balance. The Decimator delivers excellent pop on shots without sacrificing precision. I found it easier to place shots exactly where I wanted, especially during fast-paced rallies. The textured surface also enhanced spin potential, which gave me an edge in my game.

Weight and Maneuverability

The paddle is moderately weighted, around 7.8 to 8.2 ounces, which felt just right. It wasn’t too heavy to slow down my reaction, nor too light to feel flimsy. This balance made quick wrist movements and defensive plays more manageable, which is crucial in pickleball.

Grip Comfort and Size

The grip size on the Decimator worked well for my hand size, offering a secure hold without slipping. If you have larger or smaller hands, Franklin offers different grip sizes, so be sure to choose one that fits you well to avoid strain or injury.

Durability and Longevity

After several months of regular play, my paddle has held up remarkably well. The surface remains intact without noticeable wear, and the core hasn’t developed any dents or damage. This durability makes it a good investment if you’re playing frequently.

Price Point and Value

While the Franklin Decimator is priced in the mid to high range for pickleball paddles, I found the performance and build quality justify the cost. If you’re serious about improving your game, investing in a quality paddle like this one makes sense.

Who Should Consider the Franklin Decimator?

I’d recommend this paddle for intermediate to advanced players who want a good mix of power, control, and spin. Beginners might find it a bit advanced, but if you’re committed to learning, it can grow with your skills. Also, if you prefer a paddle that feels sturdy and balanced, this is a great choice.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Franklin Decimator pickleball paddle has been a solid companion on the court. Its combination of power, control, and comfortable design has helped me elevate my game. If you’re in the market for a reliable paddle that performs well across different play styles, I believe the Decimator deserves your consideration.

I hope my experience helps you make a confident choice!

Author Profile

Charlie Kirby
Charlie Kirby
I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.

In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.